Taking small steps to new heights with My Junior Tribe
In this month’s article, our volunteer Eman El-Abdi shares her experience of My Junior Tribe (MJT), reflecting on the progress her child has made attending our weekly after-school club.
“In a charming twist of logic, an autistic child once insisted on taking a ladder to therapy, explaining with admirable conviction, “I heard we were working on ‘small steps,’ and I want to take them to new heights!” For him, as for many others, progress was a journey best undertaken in style”.
Nestled in the heart of Borough, Mint Street Adventure Playground has long been a sanctuary of play and community. Its large glass windows provide sweeping vistas of nature-inspired wooden climbing frames, creating a striking contrast to the once leaky-roofed building where my eldest children once crawled. Despite the updates to the structure, the unwavering sense of community and unity remains a hallmark of this cherished place.
For children and parents alike, the playground’s grand windows offer more than just a view: they are a therapeutic portal to the outside world, filled with the sounds of children at play. Returning here is a journey into the past, steeped in nostalgia and profound gratitude for the community’s commitment to rejuvenating this beloved landmark. It is not merely a structure; it is the heartbeat and essence of our neighbourhood.
A new chapter
It was in this spirit of community and inclusivity that two passionate SEN parents, Marine and Sonay, embarked on a remarkable endeavour. Their vision was to create a nurturing hub specifically designed for neurodiverse families. Their initiative culminated in the establishment of My Junior Tribe (MJT), an after-school club that stands as both a celebration of neurodiversity and a testament to our community’s dedication to inclusivity. This new chapter enriches the legacy of Mint Street Adventure Playground, transforming it into a vibrant nexus for neurodiverse children and their families.
The MJT staff, with a dedication reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes, take the time to understand each child’s unique quirks, interests, and strengths. Whether through sensory-friendly crafts or favourite toys where my son loves to retreat, every activity is tailored to perfectly suit each child's needs. This personalised approach has turned our after-school hours into a series of engaging and enjoyable experiences.
Warm and welcoming, safe and comfortable
My Junior Tribe exudes warmth and welcome, offering a much-needed respite on Thursday evenings after a week of challenges. My daughter has discovered friends who celebrate each other’s unique qualities, while I have connected with fellow parents who understand the chaos and triumphs of raising a neurodivergent child. In this environment, social interactions, which can often feel like a minefield, become opportunities for growth. Here, my child has space to practice social skills and navigate the occasional meltdown with the support of gentle, understanding staff.
Safety and comfort are paramount at My Junior Tribe. The facilities are thoughtfully designed with neurodiverse needs in mind, featuring a sensory-friendly corner and a quiet zone for moments of retreat. For parents who need to discreetly step away, the changing facilities opposite the activity hall offer added convenience. Additionally, a selection of snacks, ranging from fresh fruits to delicious cakes, is served, ensuring that children are nourished and energized for their activities.
Progress, solidarity, understanding and connection
By embracing the full spectrum of neurodiversity, My Junior Tribe has facilitated my child’s transition into new environments - a feat that once seemed near impossible. The bonds forged among parents have become a source of solidarity and understanding. On hectic days when conversation is scarce, we exchange knowing looks that silently convey, “it’s one of those days”.
For those seeking a community where you can relate, communicate, share resources, and watch your child flourish, My Junior Tribe is the place where it all comes together. Here, amidst the echoes of laughter and learning, the promise of progress and the joy of community thrive in equal measure.
My Junior Tribe is more than an after-school club; it is a celebration of understanding and compassion. Each session dismantles barriers and cultivates progress. Witnessing my child’s small yet significant strides each week feels like discovering a hidden treasure, a reminder that progress is often a dance of two steps forward and one step back; a journey only parents of neurodiverse children truly understand.
My Junior Tribe takes place every Thursday during term time. It will restart on 5th September from 3:30-5:15pm in Mint Street Adventure Playground, Borough SE1.